Black Day for ABs

After starting as promising co-favourites the All Blacks finished a disappointing third in the 2003 World Cup being knocked out in the semi-finals 22-10 by a more professional and committed Wallaby performance. England defeated Australia 20-17 in an utterly memorable final. Solace for Kiwi fans facing another 4 years of hurt: the Aussie fans weren’t expecting it either and the ABs have again fallen victim to another of rugby’s greatest upset wins. “It’s only a game”. Lock Chris Jack, breakaway Richie McCaw, and the speedy back three of Joe Rokocoko, Doug Howlett and Mils Muliaina made the tournament Fantastic XV. “Don’t lose sight of the fact that this New Zealand team are the ones who have set the standard for world rugby this year. They are a very, very good side.” Wallaby coach Eddie Jones (who at least nurses an empty trophy cabinet through the off-season).